NZ Report on Geospatial Skill Shortage

The July report commissioned by the New Zealand Geospatial Office and SIBA NZ (Spatial Industries Business Association) is titled: The Geospatial Skills Shortage in New Zealand.

The report addresses three main questions:

1. What evidence is there of a shortage in the workforce for people with geospatial skills internationally?
2. What is the extent, if any, of a geospatial skills shortage in New Zealand?
3. If a skills shortage exists, what facilities are in place to address this shortage?

The answers to 1 and 2 are yes, and prompt five recommendations:

1. The addition of "Other Spatial Scientist‟ to the New Zealand long term skills shortage list in order to attract qualified and experienced geospatial
professionals. The remaining four recommendations are key areas identified for consideration in
the report.
2. The development of clear graduate pathways for new graduates wishing to gain initial industry experience.
3. Supporting current staff in the attainment of skills, especially recognised academic qualifications.
4. Raising awareness of geospatial careers with secondary school students.
5. Raising awareness amongst managers and other key stakeholders of the possible benefits of applying a geospatial approach.